Madison Black Restaurant Week featuring 35+ local food businesses

MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) -For an eighth year, Madison Black Restaurant Week is underway now through Sunday, Aug. 20.

The event organized by the Madison Black Chamber of Commerce, includes more than 35 Black-owned restaurants, food trucks, caterers, dessert makers and more.

Madison Black Restaurant Week aims to amplify the contributions of Black entrepreneurs, chefs, and restaurateurs to the Madison area culinary scene.

“We come together build community over food, but what also happens when new customers experience great places, collaborations are created and this is really what the true beauty of Black Restaurant Week is,” said Camille Carter, Black Chamber president.

Newest BRW participating restaurant is Cliff’s Willy Street Eats located at 1146 Williamson St., a spot which just opened in March and is run by owner Cliff Simmons. “I look forward to feeding as many people that can come through this door,” laughed Simmons.

Simmons and his business partner Chez Bernard bring to customers a menu blended with African-American and authentic Jamaican cuisine. “When I was a kid growing up in Jamaica I was always in the kitchen, my mom and my grandmother, always in the kitchen watching everything they did,” started Bernard. “Every time they taste my food and they smile it brings warmth to my heart.”

Simmons said he has been fostering a love of cooking since he was 3 years old with memories of learning from his grandmother in the kitchen. She has since passed and he said that was the motivation to go back to school, save for his own restaurant and make his grandmother proud.

“I enjoy just putting a smile on peoples faces because when they see me come out, people tell me it tastes like somebody’s grandmother made it so that’s a big compliment to me because I know that’s her,” he said pointing up toward the sky.

Cliff’s Willy Street Eats is open 12p.m. through 12 a.m. seven days a week. Look for breakfast to begin in the coming weeks from 7-10a.m.

Black-owned restaurants across Madison will are offering special menu items and discounts, to best showcase their culinary talents.

Carter said the week encompasses everything from soulful comfort food to exquisite African-inspired delicacies.

To cook up a slice of competition, diners can vote for their favorite new spots and old favorites during the week. “We challenge you to eat, have fun, visit our restaurateurs, vote for them! You can vote on your favorite restaurant, your favorite food cart, your favorite Jamboree Taste,” Carter noted.

For those looking for a taste of nearly everything offered during the week can stop by FEED Kitchens Sunday, Aug. 20 from 2-5p.m. at the Food Taste Jamboree. The event will bring together more than a dozen food businesses offering small dishes for $5.

See here for the 2023 participants.

Madison Black Chamber is kicking off Black Restaurant Week in the capital city through Aug. 20.

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